Vocational education (VE) in Switzerland is characterized by diversity and pragmatism and is shaped by the country's geography, political system, economy, and culture. Roughly two-thirds of all Swiss youth participate in some form of vocational training at the upper secondary level. Vocational certificates and higher vocational certificates can only be taken after several years of job experience. Apprenticeship is the predominant form of VE in Switzerland. In terms of quantity, the most important sectors for VE are industry, crafts, trade, banking, insurance, transport, restaurants and hotels, the other service sectors, and home economics. Switzerland's Federal Vocational Education Act regulates vocational training in those sectors. VE falls under jurisdiction of the Federation Department of Economic Affairs. The original form of training in apprenticeships consisted of two learning venues (the firm where apprentices trained and the vocational school) and was called the dual system. In 1980, the "triad system" was established. It includes training in a firm, attendance at a vocational school, and compulsory "introductory courses." VE opportunities for special needs people include elementary training schemes for young people with "more practical abilities" and special programs for gifted students at advanced vocational schools. Vocational schools are funded almost exclusively by the state, but training centers and apprenticeships are subsidized by professional associations and firms. (MN)